Civic Engagement in American Constitutional Democracy
Explore civic participation and constitutional democracy in the US, developing your civic identity and voice.
Explore civic participation and constitutional democracy in the US, developing your civic identity and voice.
Dive into the heart of American constitutional democracy with this comprehensive course from Harvard University. Over seven weeks, you'll gain a deep understanding of civic engagement, constitutional principles, and the evolution of US democracy. The course emphasizes active participation, encouraging you to develop your own civic identity and voice. You'll explore the philosophical foundations of democracy, rights and responsibilities, and the mechanisms for change in our constitutional system. By examining historical contexts and contemporary issues, you'll learn how to connect your personal interests with broader community needs. This course, built on a decade of research by Harvard's Democratic Knowledge Project, equips you with the knowledge and skills to become an informed, active citizen in today's complex democratic landscape.
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What you'll learn
Develop a personal civic narrative that articulates your values and vision for community and government
Analyze the protection of rights in constitutional democracies and the consequences when rights are not secured
Examine the historical development of US democracy, its changes over time, and the mechanisms for democratic change
Connect personal interests with broader community needs, integrating diverse perspectives into the understanding of US democracy
Identify and choose among various civic roles available in a constitutional democracy
Effectively express opinions in public forums and create actionable plans for civic participation
Skills you'll gain
This course includes:
PreRecorded video
Graded assignments, exams
Access on Mobile, Tablet, Desktop
Limited Access access
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Module Description
This course offers a comprehensive exploration of American constitutional democracy and civic engagement. It covers the philosophical foundations of democracy, the structure and evolution of the US government, and the role of citizens in shaping their communities and nation. Key topics include the Declaration of Independence, constitutional rights and responsibilities, the mechanisms of democratic change, and the integration of diverse perspectives in the democratic process. The course emphasizes practical civic skills, encouraging students to develop their own civic voice and identity. It also explores how to connect personal interests with broader community needs, and teaches students how to express opinions effectively in public forums. Throughout the course, students will gain a deeper understanding of the historical context of US democracy and learn how to apply this knowledge to contemporary civic challenges.
Fee Structure
Instructor
1 Course
Prominent Scholar Advancing Democratic Theory and Civic Engagement
Danielle Allen is the James Bryant Conant University Professor at Harvard University, where she specializes in political philosophy, democratic theory, and civic education. She earned her BA from the University of California, Berkeley, and her PhD in political science from Harvard. Allen is widely recognized for her work on justice and citizenship, exploring themes in both ancient Athens and modern America. Her notable publications include "The World of Prometheus: The Politics of Punishing in Democratic Athens," "Our Declaration: A Reading of the Declaration of Independence in Defense of Equality," and "Cuz: An American Tragedy." As the director of the Democratic Knowledge Project, she focuses on enhancing civic education across K-16 levels. Allen has chaired numerous commissions, including the Our Common Purpose Commission, which aims to reinvent American democracy for the 21st century. She is an elected member of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences and has contributed to various media outlets, including the Washington Post and The Atlantic. Through her scholarship and advocacy, she continues to inspire civic engagement and promote constitutional democracy.
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Frequently asked questions
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